ATLANTA RED CROSS URGES READINESS FOR SECOND HALF OF SPRING SEVERE WEATHER SEASON

ATLANTA, GA (April 26, 2010) – Georgia’s severe weather season started slowly, as we enjoyed sunny and relatively tranquil weather for the first few weeks of spring. On April 24, however, spring turned ugly, as southern states were pummeled by tornadoes that killed 10 people in Mississippi and two others in Alabama (http://bit.ly/93Az5W). Strong tornadoes were also reported in Louisiana and Arkansas, while northwest Georgia was struck by a weaker E-F 1 storm.

Although tornadoes can occur during any time of the year in Georgia, the months of March – May are most active, with a major peak in mid- April and another weaker peak around November

The Atlanta Red Cross urges everyone to review their severe weather plans to make sure that they are prepared for severe weather threats.

Prepare a Home Tornado Plan

Pick a place where family members could gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.

If you are in a high-rise building, you may not have enough time to go to the lowest floor. Pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit Containing

First aid kit and essential medications.

Canned food and can opener.

At least three gallons of water per person.

Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags.

Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.

Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.

Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you’ll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on.)

Stay Tuned for Storm Warnings

Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information.

Know what a tornado WATCH and WARNING means:

A tornado WATCH means a tornado is possible in your area.

A tornado WARNING means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area. Go to safety immediately.